Posture Tips for Waiting On Line

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With early voting in full-swing here in NYC, this week's theme is posture while waiting in line! Whether you're waiting to get into the supermaket or at the polls, here are a few tips to help you feel more upright, comfortable, and energized.

Shift it - If you think good posture means that you should stand perfectly still and aligned all the time, think again! Good posture is dynamic and if you're standing for awhile, it's fine to shift your weight. Just think about how you're doing it. For example, if you always shift to one side, try shifting to the other side. See if you can make the shift smaller or move more slowly into the next position. See if you can shift to the side, forward, or back without sinking down in your body. Try placing one foot slightly in front of the other and make small shifts back and forth between the two feet. Again, try not to sink down.

Up on the toes - Standing in line can be tiring and maybe you don't feel like you have the energy to stand up taller...so literally make yourself taller for a moment. Go up on your toes a few times and then slowly come back down (if you don't have trouble balancing). As you slowly bring your heels down, picture the top of your head point up (just picture it, don't pull your head in any direction.) And don't hold your breath! See if you feel taller and more energized.

Look around - If you keep your gaze low, you'll likely lower your head and keep it there. Raise your gaze a little higher. Take in your surroundings. See and hear what's around you.

Avoid the smart phone slump - Are you keeping busy on your smart phone while waiting? Try these two things to avoid the smart phone slump...1) When you lift the phone, don't lean your back backwards, just lift your hand and arm. 2) When looking down at the phone, don't drop your head. Instead, gently tip your chin to look down.

Try out these strategies and let me know if they make your wait a little more comfortable and if you feel a bit more alert!

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